Programme Information | Study information

1. Programme Title: Applied Data Science (Ecology & Evolution)	NQF Level:	7

2. Description of the Programme (as in the Business Approval Form)
Contemporary crises of the environment, and the ongoing threats of habit loss and extinction posed to many species, have brought into sharp focus the importance of data intensive research in ecology and evolution. Technological advances in high-throughput methods, from genome sequencing to satellite tracking, allow researchers to generate data at unprecedented scales and complexity. But Big Data alone will not solve the pressing crises without intelligent data handling, understanding and analysis. This programme immerses students in the “Big Data revolution” and develops essential expertise for data-driven perspectives on ecology, evolution, conservation, biodiversity, and epidemiology.

2. Description of the Programme (as in the Business Approval Form)

Contemporary crises of the environment, and the ongoing threats of habit loss and extinction posed to many species, have brought into sharp focus the importance of data intensive research in ecology and evolution. Technological advances in high-throughput methods, from genome sequencing to satellite tracking, allow researchers to generate data at unprecedented scales and complexity. But Big Data alone will not solve the pressing crises without intelligent data handling, understanding and analysis. This programme immerses students in the “Big Data revolution” and develops essential expertise for data-driven perspectives on ecology, evolution, conservation, biodiversity, and epidemiology.

3. Educational Aims of the Programme
Drawing on contemporary research and datasets, and in collaboration with internationally renowned researchers and data curators, students will be guided through relevant concepts in data science, from data visualisation to statistical modelling and advanced methodologies in the field of machine learning and artificial intelligence. This programme is specifically designed for students with an interest in modern approaches in the life sciences. It does not rely on a firm background in mathematics, statistics or computer science, but is instead aimed at enhancing the students’ understanding of and confidence in using data to generate new biological insights by means of research-led teaching, practical examples and hands-on exercises. In the first term, students develop core skills and understanding through the fundamentals modules in data science and in ecology and evolution. In the second term, students are exposed to state of the art methods in the “Trends in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence” module, complete the interdisciplinary, inquiry-led module “Tackling Sustainability Challenges using Data and Models”, and further Masters level modules within biosciences. The third term comprises an advanced data science and modelling project. As a highly inter-disciplinary programme, run jointly between the departments of mathematics and biosciences, and with an emphasis on applications, students will be introduced to a wide variety of data and data analytic approaches, and are given the opportunity to work with charities or public sector organizations as part of taught modules and their projects, providing them with sought-after, discipline-transcending skills.

3. Educational Aims of the Programme

Drawing on contemporary research and datasets, and in collaboration with internationally renowned researchers and data curators, students will be guided through relevant concepts in data science, from data visualisation to statistical modelling and advanced methodologies in the field of machine learning and artificial intelligence. This programme is specifically designed for students with an interest in modern approaches in the life sciences. It does not rely on a firm background in mathematics, statistics or computer science, but is instead aimed at enhancing the students’ understanding of and confidence in using data to generate new biological insights by means of research-led teaching, practical examples and hands-on exercises. In the first term, students develop core skills and understanding through the fundamentals modules in data science and in ecology and evolution. In the second term, students are exposed to state of the art methods in the “Trends in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence” module, complete the interdisciplinary, inquiry-led module “Tackling Sustainability Challenges using Data and Models”, and further Masters level modules within biosciences. The third term comprises an advanced data science and modelling project.

As a highly inter-disciplinary programme, run jointly between the departments of mathematics and biosciences, and with an emphasis on applications, students will be introduced to a wide variety of data and data analytic approaches, and are given the opportunity to work with charities or public sector organizations as part of taught modules and their projects, providing them with sought-after, discipline-transcending skills.

4. Programme Structure
The MSc in Applied Data Science (Ecology and Evolution) is a 1-year full-time programme of study at National Qualification Framework (NQF) level 7 (as confirmed against the FHEQ). The programme is divided into units of study called ‘modules’ which are assigned a number of ‘credits’. The credit rating of a module is proportional to the total workload, with 1 credit being nominally equivalent to 10 hours of work. The programme comprises 180 credits in total. Interim Awards If you do not complete the programme, you may be able to exit with a lower qualification. Postgraduate Diploma: At least 120 credits of which 90 or more must be at NQF level 7. Postgraduate Certificate: At least 60 credits of which 45 or more must be at NQF level 7.

4. Programme Structure

The MSc in Applied Data Science (Ecology and Evolution) is a 1-year full-time programme of study at National Qualification Framework (NQF) level 7 (as confirmed against the FHEQ). The programme is divided into units of study called ‘modules’ which are assigned a number of ‘credits’. The credit rating of a module is proportional to the total workload, with 1 credit being nominally equivalent to 10 hours of work. The programme comprises 180 credits in total.

Interim Awards

If you do not complete the programme, you may be able to exit with a lower qualification.

Postgraduate Diploma: At least 120 credits of which 90 or more must be at NQF level 7.

Postgraduate Certificate: At least 60 credits of which 45 or more must be at NQF level 7.

5. Programme Modules
The following tables describe the programme and constituent modules. Constituent modules may be updated, deleted or replaced as a consequence of the annual review of this programme. Details of the modules currently offered may be obtained from the College website: College to provide link The table below outlines the structure of the MSc programme. In Term 1, you will take two core/compulsory modules and may chose a further optional module. You will take two more core/compulsory modules and a possible option in Term 2. Every module has its own assessment criteria, details of which are provided in the module descriptors. You may take optional modules provided that any necessary prerequisites have been satisfied; you have the module convenor’s agreement; there are no timetable conflicts; and you have not already taken the module in question or an equivalent module. In Term 3, you will conduct an individual research project/dissertation that encapsulates the skills and knowledge you have developed during the taught sections of the programme. You may propose your own research topic, typically in collaboration with an academic supervisor, or select from a list of projects provided. In this research project you will apply data science and AI skills to a challenge in Ecology and/or Evolution. Supervision will be provided by experts in both data science and biosciences, and may involve industry, public or third sector organisations. The project should be predominantly of a research nature and aim to make a small but unique contribution to your chosen subject area, with an appropriate balance of data science and application. It will lead to a dissertation submission and presentation (outlined in the module descriptor), with the dissertation submitted at the end of the academic year.

5. Programme Modules

The following tables describe the programme and constituent modules. Constituent modules may be updated, deleted or replaced as a consequence of the annual review of this programme. Details of the modules currently offered may be obtained from the College website: College to provide link

The table below outlines the structure of the MSc programme. In Term 1, you will take two core/compulsory modules and may chose a further optional module. You will take two more core/compulsory modules and a possible option in Term 2. Every module has its own assessment criteria, details of which are provided in the module descriptors. You may take optional modules provided that any necessary prerequisites have been satisfied; you have the module convenor’s agreement; there are no timetable conflicts; and you have not already taken the module in question or an equivalent module.

In Term 3, you will conduct an individual research project/dissertation that encapsulates the skills and knowledge you have developed during the taught sections of the programme. You may propose your own research topic, typically in collaboration with an academic supervisor, or select from a list of projects provided. In this research project you will apply data science and AI skills to a challenge in Ecology and/or Evolution. Supervision will be provided by experts in both data science and biosciences, and may involve industry, public or third sector organisations. The project should be predominantly of a research nature and aim to make a small but unique contribution to your chosen subject area, with an appropriate balance of data science and application. It will lead to a dissertation submission and presentation (outlined in the module descriptor), with the dissertation submitted at the end of the academic year.

Stage 1

Code	Title	Credits	Compulsory	NonCondonable
MTHM601	Fundamentals of Data Science	30	Yes	No
MTHM602	Trends in Data Science and AI	15	Yes	No
MTHM603	Data Science and Modelling Dissertation	60	Yes	No
MTHM604	Tackling Sustainability Challenges using Data and Models	30	Yes	No
BIOM4046	Evolutionary and Behavioural Ecology: Frontiers and Approaches	30	Yes	No
Select 15 credits:
LESM005	Applied Data Analysis	15	No	No
BIOM4014	Preparing for Ecological Consultancy	15	No	No
GEOM406	Marine and Coastal Sustainability	15	No	No
BIO3131	Trends in Ecology and Evolution	15	No	No
BIO3401	Coevolutionary Interactions	15	No	No
BIO3415	Ecological Responses to Climate Change	15	No	No
BIO3421	Animal Migration	15	No	No

6. Programme Outcomes Linked to Teaching, Learning & Assessment Methods
On successfully completing the programme you will be able to:	Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be accommodated & facilitated by the following learning & teaching and evidenced by the following assessment methods:
A Specialised Subject Skills & Knowledge 1. Select appropriate statistics, data science and AI methods to detect, model and understand patterns in data. 2. Apply a range of statistics, data science and AI techniques to a range of current problems and/or new insights in ecology and evolution. 3. Conceive and realise appropriate data analysis designs to address real-world challenges in ecology and evolution. 4. Communicate the results of complex data analyses, including an understanding of how subsequent analyses are affected by the source of data and how it was collected. 5. Demonstrate a critical awareness of ecological and evolutionary processes. 6. Apply ecological and evolutionary principals, in combination with data science knowledge and skills, to analyse, evaluate, criticise, and where appropriate, develop novel, approaches and hypotheses. 7. Use data to assess the state of ecological and evolutionary systems.	Learning & Teaching Activities Lectures, workshops, seminars, practicals, online materials and formal training. Each module also has core and supplementary texts, or material recommended by module deliverers, which provide in-depth coverage of the subject beyond lecture content. Students are given clear guidance in how to manage their learning. Project work, involving real-world data and case studies, is used extensively to integrate material and make knowledge and skills functional.
	Assessment Methods The assessment approach for each module is explicitly stated in the full module description given to students. Assessment methods will include: Quizzes (ILO1), written reports (ILO1-7), practical exercises in coding and data analysis (ILO1-3 and 7), examination (ILO2 and 5-6), presentations (ILO4 and 5).
B Academic Discipline Core Skills & Knowledge 8. Understand the methodology, and practical use, of data science and AI. 9. Select and apply appropriate methods based on the problem being addressed. 10. Perform critical appraisal of relevant academic and technical literature, and algorithms. 11. Understand the technical details behind new methods and appraise their suitability before applying them. 12. Handle large and complex datasets effectively and prepare them for analyses. 13. Understand the importance of data visualisation within data science and AI. 14. Develop appreciation of suitable approaches in communication of results to different audiences. 15. Understand the consequences of legal and regulatory requirements for data privacy, ethical use of data, and data governance. 16. Apply appropriate mathematical and computational modelling and scientific principles to the design, analysis and solution of practical problems in ecology and evolutionary biology. 17. Exhibit professional level ICT skills in course work, research and presentation.	Learning & Teaching Activities Lectures, workshops, seminars, practicals, online materials and formal training. Each module also has core and supplementary texts, or material recommended by module deliverers, which provide in-depth coverage of the subject and go beyond the lectures.
	Assessment Methods The assessment strategy for each module is explicitly stated in the full module description given to students. Group and team skills are addressed within modules dealing with specialist and advanced skills. Assessment methods will include: Quizzes (ILO8, 10 and 11), written reports (ILO8-17), practical exercises in coding and data analysis (ILO8, 9, 11-13 and 16), examinations (ILO11 and 16), presentations (ILO8, 10, 11, 13-17).
C Personal / Transferable / Employment Skills & Knowledge 18. Effectively communicate methods and results based on analysis of complex problems in both written reports and oral presentations. 19. Demonstrate awareness of tools and technologies relevant to data science, AI, ecology and evolutionary biology. 20. Design and manage a data analysis and ecology and/or evolution project from initiation to final report. 21. Work effectively, both independently and in teams. 22. Demonstrate leadership in managing team work.	Learning & Teaching Activities Lectures, workshops, seminars, practicals, online materials and formal training. Each module also has core and supplementary texts, or material recommended by module deliverers, which provide in-depth coverage of the subject and go beyond the lectures.
	Assessment Methods The assessment strategy for each module is explicitly stated in the full module description given to students. Assessment methods will include: Written reports (ILO18-21), executive report by group lead (ILO21-22), practical exercises in coding and data analysis (ILO19-20), examinations (ILO19), presentations (ILO18-21).

7. Programme Regulations
Full details of assessment regulations for all taught programmes can be found in the TQA Manual, specifically in the Credit and Qualifications Framework, and the Assessment, Progression and Awarding: Taught Programmes Handbook. Additional information, including Generic Marking Criteria, can be found in the Learning and Teaching Support Handbook.

7. Programme Regulations

Full details of assessment regulations for all taught programmes can be found in the TQA Manual, specifically in the Credit and Qualifications Framework, and the Assessment, Progression and Awarding: Taught Programmes Handbook.

Additional information, including Generic Marking Criteria, can be found in the Learning and Teaching Support Handbook.

8. College Support for Students and Students' Learning
In accordance with University policy a system of personal tutors is in place for all students on this programme. A University-wide statement on such provision is included in the University's TQA Manual. As a student enrolled on this programme you will receive the personal and academic support of the Programme Coordinator and will have regular scheduled meetings with your Personal Tutor; you may request additional meetings as and when required. The role of personal tutors is to provide you with advice and support for the duration of the programme and extends to providing you with details of how to obtain support and guidance on personal difficulties such as accommodation, financial difficulties and sickness. You can also make an appointment to see individual teaching staff. Online Module study resources provide materials for modules that you are registered for, in addition to some useful subject and IT resources. Generic study support resources, library and research skills, past exam papers, and the 'Academic Honesty and Plagiarism' module are also available through the student portal (http://vle.exeter.ac.uk) Student/Staff Liaison Committee enables students & staff to jointly participate in the management and review of the teaching and learning provision. Your lead Department will be Mathematics. You will be taught and supervised by staff from Mathematics, and also the Centre for Ecology and Conservation and the Environment and Sustainability Institute (all based on Penryn campus). You can expect reasonable access to all teaching staff through appointments and will in addition receive formative feedback from various discussion groups/in-lecture exercises throughout the delivery of each module and therefore receive essentially continuous feedback during the taught component of the programme. Project supervisors provide academic and tutorial support once students move on to the research (Dissertation) component of the course. Student progress will be monitored and you can receive up-to-date records of the assessment, achievements and progress at any stage.

8. College Support for Students and Students' Learning

In accordance with University policy a system of personal tutors is in place for all students on this programme. A University-wide statement on such provision is included in the University's TQA Manual. As a student enrolled on this programme you will receive the personal and academic support of the Programme Coordinator and will have regular scheduled meetings with your Personal Tutor; you may request additional meetings as and when required. The role of personal tutors is to provide you with advice and support for the duration of the programme and extends to providing you with details of how to obtain support and guidance on personal difficulties such as accommodation, financial difficulties and sickness. You can also make an appointment to see individual teaching staff.

Online Module study resources provide materials for modules that you are registered for, in addition to some useful subject and IT resources. Generic study support resources, library and research skills, past exam papers, and the 'Academic Honesty and Plagiarism' module are also available through the student portal (http://vle.exeter.ac.uk)

Student/Staff Liaison Committee enables students & staff to jointly participate in the management and review of the teaching and learning provision.

Your lead Department will be Mathematics. You will be taught and supervised by staff from Mathematics, and also the Centre for Ecology and Conservation and the Environment and Sustainability Institute (all based on Penryn campus). You can expect reasonable access to all teaching staff through appointments and will in addition receive formative feedback from various discussion groups/in-lecture exercises throughout the delivery of each module and therefore receive essentially continuous feedback during the taught component of the programme. Project supervisors provide academic and tutorial support once students move on to the research (Dissertation) component of the course. Student progress will be monitored and you can receive up-to-date records of the assessment, achievements and progress at any stage.

10. Admission Criteria
All applications are considered individually on merit. The University is committed to an equal opportunities policy with respect to gender, age, race, sexual orientation and disability when dealing with applications. It is also committed to widening access to higher education to students from a diverse range of backgrounds and experience. Candidates must satisfy the general admissions requirements of the University of Exeter. Entry requirements Candidates will be required to have a good degree (at least a 2:2), or equivalent qualification. Successful applicants will usually have at least an A-level or equivalent in mathematics and/or have received quantitative skills training as part of their undergraduate programme or professional experience. Prior experience of coding is not necessary on this programme. For those whose native language is not English, evidence of competence in the English language will be required and, after admission to the University, they may be given the opportunity to take additional language instruction, normally at the University INTO Language Centre. IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) are acceptable for evidence; details of these can be found in the Graduate School Prospectus. For an unconditional offer, scores of IELTS - 7-9 (with 6.0 in writing), TOEFL - 250-300 (4.0 in essay writing), (paper based TOEFL score 590-677) are required. However, if the student has successfully undertaken a full degree programme in an English speaking country, e.g. UK, USA, Australia, this requirement will normally be waived provided that the degree was taken no more than five years before the start of proposed study here. Other qualifications may also be considered. We actively promote the University’s policies with regard to equality of opportunity. Admissions information relating to disability can be found at http://www.exeter.ac.uk/accessability/disability-support-offered/

10. Admission Criteria

All applications are considered individually on merit. The University is committed to an equal opportunities policy with respect to gender, age, race, sexual orientation and disability when dealing with applications. It is also committed to widening access to higher education to students from a diverse range of backgrounds and experience.

Candidates must satisfy the general admissions requirements of the University of Exeter.

Entry requirements

Candidates will be required to have a good degree (at least a 2:2), or equivalent qualification.

Successful applicants will usually have at least an A-level or equivalent in mathematics and/or have received quantitative skills training as part of their undergraduate programme or professional experience.

Prior experience of coding is not necessary on this programme.

For those whose native language is not English, evidence of competence in the English language will be required and, after admission to the University, they may be given the opportunity to take additional language instruction, normally at the University INTO Language Centre. IELTS (International English Language Testing System) and TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) are acceptable for evidence; details of these can be found in the Graduate School Prospectus. For an unconditional offer, scores of IELTS - 7-9 (with 6.0 in writing), TOEFL - 250-300 (4.0 in essay writing), (paper based TOEFL score 590-677) are required. However, if the student has successfully undertaken a full degree programme in an English speaking country, e.g. UK, USA, Australia, this requirement will normally be waived provided that the degree was taken no more than five years before the start of proposed study here. Other qualifications may also be considered.

We actively promote the University’s policies with regard to equality of opportunity. Admissions information relating to disability can be found at http://www.exeter.ac.uk/accessability/disability-support-offered/

11. Regulation of Assessment and Academic Standards
Each academic programme in the University is subject to an agreed College assessment and marking strategy, underpinned by institution-wide assessment procedures. The security of assessment and academic standards is further supported through the appointment of External Examiners for each programme. External Examiners have access to draft papers, course work and examination scripts. They are required to attend the Board of Examiners and to provide an annual report. Annual External Examiner reports are monitored at both College and University level. Their responsibilities are described in the University's code of practice. See the University's TQA Manual for details.

11. Regulation of Assessment and Academic Standards

Each academic programme in the University is subject to an agreed College assessment and marking strategy, underpinned by institution-wide assessment procedures.

The security of assessment and academic standards is further supported through the appointment of External Examiners for each programme. External Examiners have access to draft papers, course work and examination scripts. They are required to attend the Board of Examiners and to provide an annual report. Annual External Examiner reports are monitored at both College and University level. Their responsibilities are described in the University's code of practice. See the University's TQA Manual for details.

12. Indicators of Quality and Standards
Certain programmes are subject to accreditation and/or review by professional and statutory regulatory bodies (PSRBs). This programme is not subject to any such requirements.

14	Awarding Institution	University of Exeter
15	Lead College / Teaching Institution	College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences
16	Partner College / Institution	College of Life and Environmental Sciences
17	Programme accredited/validated by	External bodies (PSRB) that have endorsed this programme
18	Final Award(s)	MSc
19	UCAS Code (UG programmes)	APDATECOEVO
20	NQF Level of Final Awards(s):	7
21	Credit (CATS and ECTS)	180
22	QAA Subject Benchmarking Group (UG and PGT programmes)

23	Origin Date	February 8th 2023	Last Date of Revision:	February 8th 2023

Applied Data Science (Ecology & Evolution) (2023)

1. Programme Title:

Applied Data Science (Ecology & Evolution)

NQF Level:

7

2. Description of the Programme (as in the Business Approval Form)

3. Educational Aims of the Programme

4. Programme Structure

5. Programme Modules

Stage 1

6. Programme Outcomes Linked to Teaching, Learning & Assessment Methods

A Specialised Subject Skills & Knowledge

Learning & Teaching Activities

Assessment Methods

B Academic Discipline Core Skills & Knowledge

Learning & Teaching Activities

Assessment Methods

C Personal / Transferable / Employment Skills & Knowledge

Learning & Teaching Activities

Assessment Methods

7. Programme Regulations

8. College Support for Students and Students' Learning

10. Admission Criteria

11. Regulation of Assessment and Academic Standards

12. Indicators of Quality and Standards